Scammers are posing as FBI employees

If you get a call from someone claiming to be from the FBI and they offer you a grant, don’t fall for it. Sandy Breault is the public affairs specialist for the Omaha Division of the FBI and says this is a scam.

Residents in the metro area have been getting calls from someone claiming to be an FBI employee and the number on the caller ID shows the Omaha Division phone number. Breault says the caller advises the person they are eligible for a Federal Government grant and then ask for banking information or a credit card number to pay for a processing fee. Some are told they have to wire the money using Western Union.

Breault says the FBI is not associated with grants to individuals and organizations and everyone must take steps to protect themselves from falling victim to any scam.

Those tips include taking the time to educate yourself about any offer you receive and don’t be pushed into making a hasty decision. Never provide financial information over the phone to unfamiliar companies or agencies. Breault says remember it is illegal for telemarketers to ask for a fee up front.

If you have information about a fraud, report it to a state, local or federal law enforcement agency.